QUESTION: May a judge ethically require proof of registration with the United States Department of Selective Service by eligible young men as a condition for the judge giving consideration to a suspended sentence or deferred adjudication as provided by Art. 45.54, Texas Code of Criminal Procedure?

ANSWER: The posed question requires a legal opinion. The function of the judicial ethics committee is to write opinions construing the Code of Judicial Conduct. The giving of legal opinions is beyond the scope of authority given to the committee. The committee respectfully declines to answer the question and suggests that it be submitted to the office of the Attorney General or other appropriate officers authorized to give legal opinions.